Services
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a technique that endeavours to rebalance the body through the insertion and manipulation of fine acupuncture pins at specific points on the body.
In acupuncture, the needle is the tool that facilitates the practitioners conversation with the patients body. Allowing the practitioner to access and influence the dynamic flow of Qi (pronounced “Chi”) within the body.
A session may not only include acupuncture but also; cupping, Tui Na massage, moxibustion, Gua Sha and the prescription of Chinese herbal medicine.
These are all technqiues of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Cupping
Involves the placement of glass or silicone cups on problem areas to promote circulation and eliminate toxins and congestion.
Chinese herbal medicine
The prescription of Chinese herbal formulations to address patterns of disharmony in the body. Focusing not only on the treatment of disease, but also prevention.
Tui Na
It is not a regular massage. It is a Chinese bodywork technique performed through the medium of either clothes or a towel. Working with the body to promote the circulation of energy. It encorporates elements of acupressure and ancient tecnhqiues to promote the circulation of Qi within the channels.
Gua Sha
Is a technique where the surface of the skin is oiled and then scraped with a smooth tool. It is used to promote Qi and blood flow, bringing impurites to the surface to be cleared.
Gua Sha can either be extremely gentle, as when done on the face, or more vigorous when used on the body.
Moxibustion
Is a form of heat therapy performed by burning the Chinese herb Mugwort (artemesia vulgaris). It can be used in a number of ways, either on the end of needles, in a box which is placed on the body, directly on the skin or through a medium like salt or ginger.
DietAry and lifestyle advice
A good diet is the foundation of health and longevity. In TCM foods are given different properties and are prescribed according to a persons constitution and specific needs. Lifestyle is also considered paramount in achieving positive outcomes and is always included in a treatment plan.
“Running water does not stagnate, a moving hinge does not rust...”
Before your treatment
It is important that you have eaten. It does not require you to have eaten much, but acupuncutre is not reccomended on an empty stomach. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing; you may be asked to degown to your undergarments (with appropriate draping used).
What to expect
You are welcomed into a safe and caring space where you will be both seen and heard. A comprehensive initial conversation, detailing your current concerns, health status and history is undertaken.
The practitioner will ask to see your tongue (please don’t brush it before you come) and feel your pulse. This is an important step in the diagnosis process in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
An individual diagnosis, treatment prinicple and the use of an informed technique are what sets TCM apart . The point prescription is an integral part of recieveing a positive outcome from the treatment. Much like a recipe, the practitioner has the opportunity to adapt it to the individual requirements of each patient. There are over 350 acupuncutre points on the body, each with their own actions and indications.
At this point you will be asked to lie on the treatment table and any of the above TCM techniques may be employed. This will be discussed with you at the time and of course your consent gained. The time spent on the table varies depending on your individual needs. However, it is your time and you are encouraged to relax, and let the needles do their magic.
Acupuncutre seldom hurts
Due to the needle being so thin insertion is almost never felt. A slight pricking sensation may be experienced but this quickly disipates. A dull, heavy ache, local to the needle is also sometimes felt. This is often always a positive sign of obtaining Qi, for most this is quite relaxing.